Chapters 2â&#x20AC;&#x201C;6 are crown copyright and have been reproduced from
the government publication Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide
for New Residents (ISBN 978-0-11-341340-9). This material has
been reproduced with the permission of The National Archives
under the Open Government License.
All other text is copyright of Red Squirrel Publishing
ÂŠ 2013 Red Squirrel Publishing

Although the authors and publisher have made every effort to
ensure the accuracy and completeness of information contained
in this book, we assume no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies,
omissions or any inconsistency herein. A list of known errors or
corrections is published at www.redsquirrelbooks.com/errata

Edited by Henry Dillon & George Sandison
Proofreading by Kelly Jones
Picture research by Isaac Strang
Designed and typeset by Cox Design Limited, Witney, Oxon

contents

Everything you need
to pass your test
There are lots of study guides for the Life in the UK test out there
and it can be difficult to know which is the best. They all have the
official Home Office study materials you need to learn, but that’s
just the beginning.
We are very proud of our publications and we try to make sure
they are as helpful as possible. But don’t take our word for it!
To help you understand what we can offer, we have made the Life
in the UK Test: Free Edition. In the pages that follow you will find
out why over 400,000 people have chosen this guide already.
In this edition you get chapter 5 of the official study materials,
complete with diagrams and explanations to help break down
complicated topics and statistics.
We’ve also included key advice for you about the test, and
important facts you need to know about ILR and citizenship
applications.
Finally, there is a free practice test, so you can see how much you
learned.
Red Squirrel Publishing is dedicated to making the Life in the UK
test easier. Read on and find out how we can make this happen
for you.

George Sandison
Managing Editor
Red Squirrel Publishing

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

Introduction
Choosing to become a British citizen is an exciting decision, one
made by nearly 185,000 people in 2012. However, the decision
to become a British citizen or permanent resident is only the start
of what can be a long and challenging journey. The application
process is complex, time-consuming and expensive.
An important part of the process is the Life in the UK Test. The
Life in the UK test was revised on 25 March 2013 and this book is
based on that 3rd edition of the test. The new test requires you to
learn about British history, culture and law based on information
provided by the Home Office. This book will make learning this
information a whole lot easier.
Home Office statistics show that around one in four people failed
the 2nd edition of the test. At ÂŁ50 for every test taken this is an
expensive mistake, and an unnecessary one. Feedback from our
customers shows that over 92% pass first time.
By using this book to learn the required material, you can walk into
your test confident that you will be one of the people who pass
the test on their first attempt, and you will be one important step
closer to making Britain your home.

Get in touch
We are always delighted when
we hear from our readers. If
you have any comments or
questions about your studies
and test, the book or website,
or would like to share a
particular experience, please
get in touch with us.

To send us feedback please visit:
www.lifeintheuk.net/feedback
Find us on Facebook
www.facebook.com/lifeintheuk
Follow us on Twitter
@lifeintheuk

introduction

WHAT’S IN THis BOOK?
This guide gives you everything you need to prepare for the 3rd
revision of the Life in the UK Test, for all tests taken after 25 March
2013. This includes:
• The complete official testable materials, which are chapters
2–6. The material here is exactly the same as given by the Home
Office in Life in the United Kingdom: A guide for new residents.
• Free access to the online tests at www.lifeintheuk.net.
• New diagrams, illustrations and appendices.
The 3rd edition of the Life in the UK Test contains a lot of dates,
events and numbers. We have picked out the most complicated
parts and provided illustrations to help you learn them, as well as
providing extra appendices to help you study which you won’t find
in the official guide.

How to use this study guide
This guide has many parts and features, but the parts of the book
that you must focus on for your test are the official study materials
(see chapters 2–6). These study materials have been reproduced in
full from the Home Office publication, Life in the United Kingdom:
A guide for new residents. You must make sure you read and
understand these parts as the questions that you will be asked
when you sit your test are based on all of the information provided
in these chapters.
The testable study materials are divided into five sections:
• The values and principles of the UK
• What is the UK?
• A long and illustrious history
• A modern, thriving society
• The UK government, the law and your role
Chapter 1 is not testable and includes information on the
application process as well as advice from people who passed the
test and answers to some of their most common questions.

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

The other parts of this book support the study materials by making
them easier to understand and learn. There are also practice
tests that will help you prepare for your test by checking your
knowledge.

Appendices
This study guide contains timelines that summarise some of the
study materials. There is also an extensive glossary of words that
you need to know. These are words or phrases that you will need
to understand for your test and that you need to know to give you
background to the official study materials. Each word or phrase is
explained fully, in easy-to-understand language. As you work your
way through the materials, you can use the glossary to check any
terms or expressions that are not familiar.

Practice questions
Once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve finished revising the study materials, try answering
the practice questions. This will help you test your knowledge and
identify any areas which you need to study further.
Further practice tests, along with news and up-to-date information
about the material in this guide can also be found online at
www.lifeintheuk.net.

Get the BritTest app on your iPhone
Take practice tests wherever you go with
hundreds of questions and randomised practice
tests in your hand.
The essential revision aid for anyone on the move.
Available from www.lifeintheuk.net/app and
the App Store.
You can scan this QR code with
your iPhone and go straight to
the App Store. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t scan it,
you can download a free barcode
reader app.

Chapter 1
About the Test

➜ The Life in the UK Test

is designed to test your
knowledge of British life and ability to use the English
language.
The latest version of the citizenship test was launched
on 25 March 2013. This guide is for this 3rd version of
the citizenship test only. Since 2007 it has also been a
requirement to sit the test if you are applying for Indefinite
Leave to Remain, or settlement.

• Applicants are given 45 minutes to complete the test.
• The test is made up of 24 multiple-choice questions.
• Questions are chosen at random by computer.
• The pass mark is 75% (18 questions correct out of 24).
• Each attempt to pass the test costs £50 (as of March
2013).
• The test is conducted at around 60 Life in the UK Test
centres across the UK.
• Applicants sit the test using a computer, which is
provided by the test centre.
• Just over 77% of applicants passed the 2nd edition of
the test in 2011.

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

How to pass your test
STEP 1: BOOK YOUR TEST
You must book your test online through the UKBA website.
You will need valid photo ID, a debit or credit card and an email
address to book. You must pay the test fee when you book.
When you create an account to book your test you must provide
information such as your address, nationality, place of birth and age.
You must also provide your Home Office reference number. You will
have been issued with this if you have had previous contact with the
Home Office (for example, when applying for an extension of stay).
You will be directed to the test centres closest to you when you
book. Tests are carried out at around 60 test centres throughout
the UK. You can also call the Life in the UK Test Helpline on 0800
015 4245 for more information.
You may have to wait a few weeks for your test appointment. The
earliest you can book is seven days in advance. This is normal and
provides you with a date to focus your study towards. Make sure
you plan ahead and book your test for a day that suits you.

STEP 2: STUDY THE MATERIALS
Once you have a test appointment, you can study with that date
as a goal.
All the questions that can be asked in the Life in the UK Test are
based on the official study materials provided by the Home Office.
The relevant material has been fully reproduced in this guide.
Before you start studying, note that your official test will only ask
questions based on chapters 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 of this publication.
The questions in this book are also drawn only from those
chapters.

STEP 3: TAKE PRACTICE TESTS
Once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve finished thoroughly reviewing the study materials you
should check if you are ready to take the official test by completing
practice tests from this book. It is important to make sure that
you fully understand the content and havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just memorised the
information as written.

chapter 1: about the test

Each of the practice tests is different and contains 24 questions.
Each test contains questions covering all parts of the study
materials. These questions will not necessarily be phrased in the
same way as the text in the chapters.
If you do not pass the practice tests consistently, or do not feel
confident enough to sit your official test, then you should continue
your study. If you do not have sufficient time left before your
official test to do more study, then you may be able to reschedule
your test appointment.
You can cancel your test without charge up to seven days before
your test. If you cancel within seven days your test fee will not be
refunded. You will have to book and pay again. You can change
your test appointment using your online account on the UKBA
website.
Some of the questions asked in your test may be specific to the
part of Britain where you are taking your test. If you are taking the
test in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland then you should make
sure you understand the information in the study materials that is
specific to where you live. Examples include devolved government
structures and courts.
Once you’ve finished with the questions in this book, additional
questions can be found in our separate publication Life in the UK
Test: Practice Questions. You can also go online and access further
tests with our free subscription offer; visit www.lifeintheuk.net to
redeem this offer.
The practice questions in this book have been designed to help
you check you have acquired the knowledge you need to pass
the test. Although they are not the same questions that you will
receive in your official test, they are in the same format, use the
same approach and test you on the same official material. The
practice tests are not a substitute for reading and understanding
chapters 2–6.

STEP 4: TAKE AND PASS YOUR TEST
Firstly, it is important to make sure that you have a good night’s
sleep before the test and that you have eaten beforehand as well.
It may surprise you, but being tired or hungry can severely affect
your concentration and make the test harder for you.
Be sure to arrive earlier than your appointed test time as you will
need time to be registered by the test centre staff. If you arrive

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

less than 5 minutes before your test is due to start you may not be
allowed to take your test. If this happens you will have to rebook
and pay again.
Make sure you take proof of your address, such as a gas/water
bill, bank statement or letter from the Home Office. You must
also take the photographic ID you used when you booked your
test with you. This ID must be valid and not expired. The following
types are acceptable forms of photographic ID:
• a Biometric Residence Permit: This is a residence permit which
holds your biometric information, facial image and fingerprints –
this document must be in date
• a passport from your country of origin – this document may be
out of date
• a UK photocard driving licence, full or provisional – this
document must be in date
• a European Union Identity Card – this document must be in date
• an Approved Travel Document: a Home Office UK travel
document, a Convention Travel Document (CTD), a Certificate of
Identity Document (CID) or a Stateless Persons’ Document (SPD)
– this document must be in date, or
• an Immigration Status Document, endorsed with a UK Residence
Permit and bearing a photo of the holder – this document may
be out of date
When you arrive at the test centre you will need to register your
details and sign an attendee list to confirm your attendance. The
whole process leading up to the test itself may take some time as
there may be many candidates to register.
You will take the test using a computer provided at the test centre.
You will be allowed to run through a few practice questions so
that you are familiar with the test software. Some applicants worry
that they do not know the answers for the practice questions,
however the results of the practice questions do not affect your
end result.
Make sure you listen carefully when the test supervisor explains
how to use the test software. It is important that you know how
to use it. If you are unsure then ask the test supervisor for help. As
each applicant’s test is begun individually by the test supervisor,
your test will not begin until you say that you are ready.

chapter 1: about the test

Once your test begins you will have 45 minutes to complete it. You
will be able to review and change the answers to your questions at
any stage during the test.
If you pass then you will be given a Pass Notification Letter,
which you should sign before you leave the test centre. This is an
important document and must be attached to your settlement or
citizenship application.
You will not be able to get a replacement Pass Notification
Letter if you lose it. Make sure you keep it in a safe place.
If you don’t pass then you can take the test again, however you
will need to book and pay for another appointment. You must
wait at least 7 days before retaking your test. You should not make
an application for naturalisation as a British citizen or for Indefinite
Leave to Remain if you fail. You may need to apply for further
leave to remain if your existing leave to remain has expired, or is
close to expiring.

Advice from our readers
Our readers often contact us to share their advice and experiences
of taking the test. This section is a summary of the most common
and insightful comments that we have received.
I wasn’t allowed to take my test because I didn’t register my
middle name

When you book for your test it is essential that you provide
completely accurate information. You must ensure that your name,
and other details you provide match exactly the ID you take with
you. This means you must provide all middle and other names that
feature on your ID. If there is any uncertainty you should contact
the helpline before booking. You should also make sure your proof
of address is valid.

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

I thought Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d get a breakdown of my results that day

At the end of the test you will only be told whether you passed or
failed. You will not be told your score or how many answers you
got wrong. If you fail, you will only be told which chapters you
need to spend more time studying again.

The official questions were worded differently to the online
test questions

It is highly likely that you will not have seen the exact questions
that are in the test before. The practice tests are intended to help
you prepare and get used to the style of questions you will get
in your real test. It is very important that you read the question
carefully and are sure you understand it before you answer.
One question confused me a bit which worried me. After
some thought I remembered the section from the book and
could answer it though.

It is vital that you read every question thoroughly, and do not
make any assumptions about what it is asking you. Think about
each option and how it relates to the question carefully. However
difficult a question is remember that, if you have read all the
chapters in the book, you will have seen the answer before.

chapter 1: about the test

I failed because I relied on the practice tests and did not study
the chapters in any detail

Just taking practice tests is not sufficient preparation. Questions in
your test can be taken from every part of chapters 2, 3, 4, 5 and
6 of this book. It is very unlikely that you will understand all of the
material you may be tested on just by taking the practice tests.
In addition to taking practice tests, you should read the study
materials thoroughly.

Your application –
common problems
A small percentage of citizenship applications are refused. In JuneSeptember 2012 over 6,500 applications, making up 4% of the
total, were refused; the top five reasons for these refusals were as
follows:
Applicant not of good character: 36%
• Recurring criminal history or unspent conviction
• Considered a threat to national security
Residency requirements not satisfied: 33.7%
• Are not living lawfully in the UK
• Have been outside the UK for more than 90 days in a
12 month period
Parent not a British citizen: 9.5%
Application not correctly completed: 6.3%
• Late and improper applications
• Application fee not paid
• Unacceptable documentation submitted
Delays in responding to queries from the UK Border
Agency: 4.8%
• Additional information not supplied when requested
• Unable to contact applicant

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

You should not send your application more than 28 days before
you become eligible to apply. If you do the UK Border Agency may
refuse your application on grounds of the residency requirements
not being satisfied and they will not refund any fees paid.
However, you must ensure you make your application before your
current permission to stay in the UK expires.
You should note that in December 2012 the way criminality is
handled in regards to the good character requirement changed.
For instance, as part of these changes police cautions will now be
considered. You should check the guidance on the UKBA website
if you are concerned this will affect you.
A very small percentage were also refused because the applicant
did not attend their citizenship ceremony in time – make sure this
isn’t you!

NEW EVIDENCE IN APPEALS
The UKBA no longer accept any late evidence submitted after an
application has been made in appeals.
This means if your application is refused you cannot appeal on the
grounds that you forgot to, or could not, send in any information.
Exceptions and mitigating circumstances will not be considered.
You will also not get a refund of your application fee.
If you want to check that your application is complete you can use
the Settlement and Nationality Checking Services offered by most
local authorities. These services have two main advantages:
1 Your application, along with all supporting documentation, will
be checked and completed correctly before being sent ensuring
it is processed promptly.
2 Certified copies are taken of valuable supporting documents –
such as passports – allowing you to keep the originals.
A directory of councils offering these services can be found on our
website, www.lifeintheuk.net/ncs and www.lifeintheuk.net/scs.
There is a fee payable for this service – the amount depends on
your local council. This service is very popular, so make sure you
contact them before you want to send your application to ensure
you get an appointment.

chapter 1: about the test

Absences during the
residency period
You should already know that in order to get ILR or British
Citizenship there are limits on the amount of time you can spend
outside the UK.

INDEFINITE LEAVE TO REMAIN (ILR)
If you are applying for ILR and you have absences totalling more
than 180 days during any consecutive 12-month period during
your residence period you may have your application refused. Your
residence will also be considered broken if you are away from the
UK for more than 90 days in one go.
If you are applying as the spouse or partner of a British citizen
or permanent resident then the Immigration Rules do not
provide clear guidance. In these cases the UKBA advise that your
application ‘will be judged on its merits, taking into account your
reasons for travel, the length of your absences, and whether you
and your partner travelled and lived together while you were
outside the UK.’ We advise against long absences, where possible.

CITIZENSHIP
For citizenship applications, absences from the UK should be
limited to 90 days for each year of your qualifying period, and 90
days in the 12 months before your application.
Applications made after five year’s residence allow for 450 days
absence, with 90 in the last year.
The UKBA say they ‘normally disregard’ absences of up to 300
days. Long absences may need to be explained, but it helps if you
have settled your home, family and a large part of your estate in
the UK.
Consideration may be given for absences over the limits in certain
circumstances – for instance, if journeys outside the UK were made
for compassionate reasons, or were to do with your employment.
In the 12 months before your application the UKBA ‘normally
disregard’ absences of up to 100 days. Longer absences may need
to be explained as above.

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

Test Preparation Checklist
There are a lot of things that you need to remember to do for
the Life in the UK Test. Avoid problems and get organised by
completing this checklist.

you will learn about the population and
culture of the UK. The start of the chapter shows you where the
major cities of the UK are. You should be sure you can identify
the various cities, such as Leeds and Bradford, confidently.
Because the UK is a multicultural country you will also have to
know the sizes of the different ethnic and religious groups in the
UK, as well as their main festivals.
The chapter focuses on British culture after that and you should
make sure you know who each of the people described are and
what they have achieved. Britain’s recent sporting success at the
Olympics features heavily so focus on who won medals and for
what as well as the general information about sport in the UK.
Make sure you familiarise yourself with the poems, films, books
and other works listed too, as well as the artists, composers,
architects, authors, poets and other famous people. You should
also familiarise yourself with the extracts of poems provided and
be able to recognise the famous landmarks at the end of the
chapter.

In this chapter there is information about:
• British theatre and cinema through
• The cities and population of the UK
the ages
• Religious festivals of the UK
• British artists and architects
• Popular sports and famous
• Famous British poets and authors
sportsmen and women
• The development of music, including • Sections of famous British poems
• British comedy and leisure activities
famous composers
• Famous British landmarks

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

The UK today
The UK today is a more diverse society than it was 100 years ago,
in both ethnic and religious terms. Post-war immigration means
that nearly 10% of the population has a parent or grandparent
born outside the UK. The UK continues to be a multinational
and multiracial society with a rich and varied culture. This section
will tell you about the different parts of the UK and some of the
important places. It will also explain some of the UK’s traditions
and customs and some of the popular activities that take place.

The nations of the UK
The UK is located in the north west of Europe. The longest
distance on the mainland is from John O’Groats on the north coast
of Scotland to Land’s End in the south-west corner of England. It is
about 870 miles (approximately 1,400 kilometres).
Most people live in towns and cities but much of Britain is still
countryside. Many people continue to visit the countryside for
holidays and for leisure activities such as walking, camping and
fishing.

Cities of the UK
England

WALES

1

London

13

Cardiff

2

Birmingham

14

Swansea

3

Liverpool

15

Newport

4

Leeds

5

Sheffield

6

Bristol

7

Manchester

8

Bradford

SCOTland

9

Newcastle Upon Tyne

17

Edinburgh

10

Plymouth

18

Glasgow

11

Southampton

19

Dundee

12

Norwich

20

Aberdeen

Northern Ireland
16 Belfast

19

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

Capital cities
The capital city of the UK is London
Scotland
The capital city of
Scotland is Edinburgh

Wales
The capital city of Wales
is Cardiff

Northern Ireland
The capital city of
Northern Ireland is Belfast

Shetland Islands

20
SCOTLAND
19
Orkney
y Isles
18

17

NORTHERN
IRELAND
9
16

8
3

4
5

7

12

2

ENGLAND

WALES
14

13

15

1

6
11

10

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

UK currency
The currency in the UK is the pound sterling (symbol £). There are
100 pence in a pound. The denominations (values) of currency are:
coins: 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2
notes: £5, £10, £20, £50.
Northern Ireland and Scotland have their own banknotes, which
are valid everywhere in the UK. However, shops and businesses do
not have to accept them.

Languages and dialects

In Scotland,
Gaelic is spoken
in some parts of
the Highlands
and Islands,
and in Northern
Ireland some
people speak
Irish Gaelic.

There are many variations in language in the different parts of the
UK. The English language has many accents and dialects. In Wales,
many people speak Welsh – a completely different language from
English – and it is taught in schools and universities. In Scotland,
Gaelic (again, a different language) is spoken in some parts of the
Highlands and Islands, and in Northern Ireland some people speak
Irish Gaelic.

Population
The table below shows how the population of the UK has changed
over time.
Population growth in the UK
Year

Population

1600

Just over 4 million

1700

5 million

1801

8 million

1851

20 million

1901

40 million

1951

50 million

1998

57 million

2005

Just under 60 million

2010

Just over 62 million

Source: National Statistics

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

21

Population growth has been faster in more recent years. Migration
into the UK and longer life expectancy have played a part in
population growth.
The population is very unequally distributed over the four parts of
the UK. England more or less consistently makes up 84% of the
total population, Wales around 5%, Scotland just over 8% and
Northern Ireland less than 3%.
Population distribution across the UK
England

84%

Scotland

8%

Wales

5%

Northern Ireland

3%

An ageing population
People in the UK are living longer than ever before. This is due to
improved living standards and better health care. There are now a
record number of people aged 85 and over. This has an impact on
the cost of pensions and health care.

Ethnic diversity
The UK population is ethnically diverse and changing rapidly,
especially in large cities such as London. It is not always easy to get
an exact picture of the ethnic origin of all the population.
There are people in the UK with ethnic origins from all over the
world. In surveys, the most common ethnic description chosen is
white, which includes people of European, Australian, Canadian,
New Zealand and American descent. Other significant groups are
those of Asian, black and mixed descent.

An equal society
Within the UK, it is a legal requirement that men and women
should not be discriminated against because of their gender or
because they are, or are not, married. They have equal rights to

Within the UK,
it is a legal
requirement that
men and women
should not be
discriminated
against because
of their gender
or because they
are, or are not,
married.

22

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

work, own property, marry and divorce. If they are married, both
parents are equally responsible for their children.
Women in Britain today make up about half of the workforce. On
average, girls leave school with better qualifications than boys.
More women than men study at university.
Employment opportunities for women are much greater than
they were in the past. Women work in all sectors of the economy,
and there are now more women in high-level positions than ever
before, including senior managers in traditionally male-dominated
occupations. Alongside this, men now work in more varied jobs
than they did in the past.
It is no longer expected that women should stay at home and
not work. Women often continue to work after having children.
In many families today, both partners work and both share
responsibility for childcare and household chores.

Check that you understand:
• The capital cities of the UK
• What languages other than English are spoken in particular parts of the UK
• How the population of the UK has changed
• That the UK is an equal society and ethnically diverse
• The currency of the UK

Religion
The UK is historically a Christian country. In the 2009 Citizenship
Survey, 70% of people identified themselves as Christian. Much
smaller proportions identified themselves as Muslim (4%), Hindu
(2%), Sikh (1%), Jewish or Buddhist (both less than 0.5%), and
2% of people followed another religion. There are religious
buildings for other religions all over the UK. This includes Islamic
mosques, Hindu temples, Jewish synagogues, Sikh gurdwaras
and Buddhist temples. However, everyone has the legal right to
choose their religion, or to choose not to practise a religion. In the
Citizenship Survey, 21% of people said that they had no religion.

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

23

Religions of the UK
Christianity: 70%
No religion: 21%
Muslim: 4%
Hindu: 2%
Sikh: 1%
Jewish: Less than 0.5%
Buddhist: Less than 0.5%
Other religions: 2%

Christian churches
In England, there is a constitutional link between Church and state.
The official Church of the state is the Church of England (called
the Anglican Church in other countries and the Episcopal Church
in Scotland and the United States). It is a Protestant Church and
has existed since the Reformation in the 1530s (see page 49 for an
explanation).
The monarch is the head of the Church of England. The spiritual
leader of the Church of England is the Archbishop of Canterbury.
The monarch has the right to select the Archbishop and other
senior church officials, but usually the choice is made by the Prime
Minister and a committee appointed by the Church. Several Church
of England bishops sit in the House of Lords (see page 137).
In Scotland, the national Church is the Church of Scotland, which
is a Presbyterian Church. It is governed by ministers and elders. The
chairperson of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland
is the Moderator, who is appointed for one year only and often
speaks on behalf of that Church.
There is no established Church in Wales or Northern Ireland.
Other Protestant Christian groups in the UK are Baptists,
Methodists, Presbyterians and Quakers. There are also other
denominations of Christianity, the biggest of which is Roman
Catholic.

Patron saintsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; days
England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland each have a
national saint, called a patron saint. Each saint has a special day:

The monarch
has the right
to select the
Archbishop and
other senior
church officials,
but usually the
choice is made
by the Prime
Minister and
a committee
appointed by the
Church.

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

• 1 March: St David’s Day, Wales
• 17 March: St Patrick’s Day, Northern Ireland
• 23 April: St George’s Day, England
• 30 November: St Andrew’s Day, Scotland.
Only Scotland and Northern Ireland have their patron saint’s day
as an official holiday (although in Scotland not all businesses
and offices will close). Events are held across Scotland, Northern
Ireland and the rest of the country, especially where there are a lot
of people of Scottish, Northern Irish and Irish heritage.
While the patron saints’ days are no longer public holidays in
England and Wales, they are still celebrated. Parades and small
festivals are held all over the two countries.
Westminster
Abbey has been
the coronation
church since 1066
and is the final
resting place of
17 monarchs

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chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

Check that you understand:
• The different religions that are practised in the UK
• That the Anglican Church, also known as the Church of England, is the
Church of the state in England (the ‘established Church’)
• That other branches of the Christian Church also practise their faith in the
UK without being linked to the state
• That other religions are practised in the UK
• About the patron saints

Customs and traditions
The main Christian festivals
Christmas Day, 25 December, celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
It is a public holiday. Many Christians go to church on Christmas
Eve (24 December) or on Christmas Day itself.
Christmas is celebrated in a traditional way. People usually spend
the day at home and eat a special meal, which often includes
roast turkey, Christmas pudding and mince pies. They give gifts,
send cards and decorate their houses. Christmas is a special time
for children. Very young children believe that Father Christmas
(also known as Santa Claus) brings them presents during the night
before Christmas Day. Many people decorate a tree in their home.

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

A typical
Christmas
Day meal

Boxing Day is the day after Christmas Day and is a public holiday.
The 40 days
before Easter are
known as Lent.
It is a time when
Christians take
time to reflect
and prepare for
Easter.

Easter takes place in March or April. It marks the death of Jesus
Christ on Good Friday and his rising from the dead on Easter
Sunday. Both Good Friday and the following Monday, called Easter
Monday, are public holidays.
The 40 days before Easter are known as Lent. It is a time when
Christians take time to reflect and prepare for Easter. Traditionally,
people would fast during this period and today many people will
give something up, like a favourite food. The day before Lent starts
is called Shrove Tuesday, or Pancake Day. People eat pancakes,
which were traditionally made to use up foods such as eggs, fat
and milk before fasting. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. There are
church services where Christians are marked with an ash cross on
their forehead as a symbol of death and sorrow for sin.
Easter is also celebrated by people who are not religious. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Easter
eggsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; are chocolate eggs often given as presents at Easter as a
symbol of new life.

Other religious festivals
Diwali normally falls in October or November and lasts for five
days. It is often called the Festival of Lights. It is celebrated by
Hindus and Sikhs. It celebrates the victory of good over evil and
the gaining of knowledge. There are different stories about how
the festival came about. There is a famous celebration of Diwali in
Leicester.

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

27

ÂŠ VisitBritain/Andy Ward/Getty Images

Diwali is popularly
known as the
Festival of Lights

Hannukah is in November or December and is celebrated for
eight days. It is to remember the Jewsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; struggle for religious
freedom. On each day of the festival a candle is lit on a stand of
eight candles (called a menorah) to remember the story of the
festival, where oil that should have lasted only a day did so for
eight.
Eid al-Fitr celebrates the end of Ramadan, when Muslims have
fasted for a month. They thank Allah for giving them the strength
to complete the fast. The date when it takes place changes every
year. Muslims attend special services and meals.
Eid ul Adha remembers that the prophet Ibrahim was willing to
sacrifice his son when God ordered him to. It reminds Muslims
of their own commitment to God. Many Muslims sacrifice an
animal to eat during this festival. In Britain this has to be done in a
slaughterhouse.
Vaisakhi (also spelled Baisakhi) is a Sikh festival which celebrates
the founding of the Sikh community known as the Khalsa. It
is celebrated on 14 April each year with parades, dancing and
singing.

Eid ul Adha
remembers that
the prophet
Ibrahim was
willing to
sacrifice his
son when God
ordered him to.
It reminds
Muslims of their
own commitment
to God.

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

Other festivals and traditions
New Year, 1 January, is a public holiday. People usually celebrate
on the night of 31 December (called New Year’s Eve). In Scotland,
31 December is called Hogmanay and 2 January is also a public
holiday. For some Scottish people, Hogmanay is a bigger holiday
than Christmas.
Valentine’s Day, 14 February, is when lovers exchange cards and
gifts. Sometimes people send anonymous cards to someone they
secretly admire.
April Fool’s Day, 1 April, is a day when people play jokes on each
other until midday. The television and newspapers often have
stories that are April Fool jokes.
Mothering Sunday (or Mother’s Day) is the Sunday three weeks
before Easter. Children send cards or buy gifts for their mothers.
Father’s Day is the third Sunday in June. Children send cards or
buy gifts for their fathers.
Halloween, 31 October, is an ancient festival and has roots in
the pagan festival to mark the beginning of winter. Young people
will often dress up in frightening costumes to play ‘trick or treat’.
People give them treats to stop them playing tricks on them. A lot
of people carve lanterns out of pumpkins and put a candle inside.
Bonfire Night, 5 November, is an occasion when people in
Great Britain set off fireworks at home or in special displays. The
origin of this celebration was an event in 1605, when a group
of Catholics led by Guy Fawkes failed in their plan to kill the
Protestant king with a bomb in the Houses of Parliament.
Remembrance Day, 11 November, commemorates those who
died fighting for the UK and its allies. Originally it commemorated
the dead of the First World War, which ended on 11 November
1918. People wear poppies (the red flower found on the
battlefields of the First World War). At 11.00 am there is a twominute silence and wreaths are laid at the Cenotaph in Whitehall,
London.

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29

Unveiled in 1920,
the Cenotaph is
the centrepiece to
the Remembrance
Day service

Bank holidays
As well as those mentioned previously, there are other public
holidays each year called bank holidays, when banks and many
other businesses are closed for the day. These are of no religious
significance. They are at the beginning of May, in late May or early
June, and in August. In Northern Ireland, the anniversary of the
Battle of the Boyne in July is also a public holiday.

Check that you understand:
• The main Christian festivals that are celebrated in the UK
• Other religious festivals that are important in the UK
• Some of the other events that are celebrated in the UK
• What a bank holiday is

30

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

Sport
Sports of all kinds play an important part in many people’s lives.
There are several sports that are particularly popular in the UK.
Many sporting events take place at major stadiums such as
Wembley Stadium in London and the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.
Local governments and private companies provide sports facilities
such as swimming pools, tennis courts, football pitches, dry ski
slopes and gymnasiums. Many famous sports, including cricket,
football, lawn tennis, golf and rugby, began in Britain.
The UK has hosted the Olympic Games on three occasions: 1908,
1948 and 2012. The main Olympic site for the 2012 Games was in
Stratford, East London. The British team was very successful, across
a wide range of Olympic sports, finishing third in the medal table.
The UK has
hosted the
Olympic Games
on three
occasions: 1908,
1948 and 2012.

The Paralympic Games for 2012 were also hosted in London.
The Paralympics have their origin in the work of Dr Sir Ludwig
Guttman, a German refugee, at the Stoke Mandeville hospital
in Buckinghamshire. Dr Guttman developed new methods of
treatment for people with spinal injuries and encouraged patients
to take part in exercise and sport.

Notable British sportsmen and women
Sir Roger Bannister (1929–) was the first man in the world to
run a mile in under four minutes, in 1954.
Sir Jackie Stewart (1939–) is a Scottish former racing driver
who won the Formula 1 world championship three times.
Bobby Moore (1941–93) captained the English football team
that won the World Cup in 1966.
Sir Ian Botham (1955–) captained the English cricket team
and holds a number of English Test cricket records, both for
batting and for bowling.
Jayne Torvill (1957–) and Christopher Dean (1958–) won
gold medals for ice dancing at the Olympic Games in 1984 and
in four consecutive world championships.
Sir Steve Redgrave (1962–) won gold medals in rowing in
five consecutive Olympic Games and is one of Britain’s greatest
Olympians.

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

Baroness Tanni-Grey Thompson (1969–) is an athlete who
uses a wheelchair and won 16 Paralympic medals, including
11 gold medals, in races over five Paralympic Games. She won
the London Marathon six times and broke a total of 30 world
records.
Dame Kelly Holmes (1970–) won two gold medals for
running in the 2004 Olympic Games. She has held a number of
British and European records.
Dame Ellen MacArthur (1976–) is a yachtswoman and in
2004 became the fastest person to sail around the world
singlehanded.
Sir Chris Hoy (1976–) is a Scottish cyclist who has won six
gold and one silver Olympic medals. He has also won 11 world
championship titles.
David Weir (1979–) is a Paralympian who uses a wheelchair
and has won six gold medals over two Paralympic Games. He
has also won the London Marathon six times.
Bradley Wiggins (1980–) is a cyclist. In 2012, he became
the first Briton to win the Tour de France. He has won seven
Olympic medals, including gold medals in the 2004, 2008 and
2012 Olympic Games.
Mo Farah (1983–) is a British distance runner, born in Somalia.
He won gold medals in the 2012 Olympics for the 5,000 and
10,000 metres and is the first Briton to win the Olympic gold
medal in the 10,000 metres.
Jessica Ennis (1986–) is an athlete. She won the 2012 Olympic
gold medal in the heptathlon, which includes seven different
track and field events. She also holds a number of British
athletics records.
Andy Murray (1987–) is a Scottish tennis player who in 2012
won the men’s singles in the US Open. He is the first British man
to win a singles title in a Grand Slam tournament since 1936. In
the same year, he won Olympic gold and silver medals and was
runner-up in the men’s singles at Wimbledon (see page 104).
Ellie Simmonds (1994–) is a Paralympian who won gold
medals for swimming at the 2008 and 2012 Paralympic Games
and holds a number of world records. She was the youngest
member of the British team at the 2008 Games.

Football
Football is the UK’s most popular sport. It has a long history in the
UK and the first professional football clubs were formed in the late
19th century.
England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland each have separate
leagues in which clubs representing different towns and cities
compete. The English Premier League attracts a huge international
audience. Many of the best players in the world play in the Premier
League. Many UK teams also compete in competitions such as
the UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) Champions
League, against other teams from Europe. Most towns and cities
have a professional club and people take great pride in supporting

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

33

their home team. There can be great rivalry between different
football clubs and among fans.
Each country in the UK also has its own national team that
competes with other national teams across the world in
tournaments such as the FIFA (Fédération Internationale de
Football Association) World Cup and the UEFA European Football
Championships. England’s only international tournament victory
was at the World Cup of 1966, hosted in the UK.
Football is also a popular sport to play in many local communities,
with people playing amateur games every week in parks all over
the UK.

Rugby
Rugby originated in England in the early 19th century and is very
popular in the UK today. There are two different types of rugby,
which have different rules: union and league. Both have separate
leagues and national teams in England, Wales, Scotland and
Northern Ireland (who play with the Irish Republic). Teams from all
countries compete in a range of competitions. The most famous
rugby union competition is the Six Nations Championship between
England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France and Italy. The Super
League is the most well-known rugby league (club) competition.

Horse Racing
There is a very long history of horse racing in Britain, with evidence
of events taking place as far back as Roman times. The sport has
a long association with royalty. There are racecourses all over the
UK. Famous horse-racing events include: Royal Ascot, a five-day
race meeting in Berkshire attended by members of the Royal
Family; the Grand National at Aintree near Liverpool; and the
Scottish Grand National at Ayr. There is a National Horseracing
Museum in Newmarket, Suffolk.

Golf
The modern game of golf can be traced back to 15th century
Scotland. It is a popular sport played socially as well as
professionally. There are public and private golf courses all over
the UK. St Andrews in Scotland is known as the home of golf. The
Open Championship is the only ‘Major’ tournament held outside
the United States. It is hosted by a different golf course every year.

There are two
different types
of rugby, which
have different
rules: union and
league. Both
have separate
leagues and
national teams
in England,
Wales, Scotland
and Northern
Ireland (who play
with the Irish
Republic).

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

Tennis
Modern tennis evolved in England in the late 19th century. The
first tennis club was founded in Leamington Spa in 1872. The
most famous tournament hosted in Britain is The Wimbledon
Championships, which takes place each year at the All England
Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. It is the oldest tennis tournament
in the world and the only ‘Grand Slam’ event played on grass.

Water sports

A British sailor,
Sir Francis
Chichester, was
the first person
to sail singlehanded around
the world, in
1966/67. Two
years later,
Sir Robin
Knox-Johnston
became the
first person to
do this without
stopping.

Sailing continues to be popular in the UK, reflecting our maritime
heritage. A British sailor, Sir Francis Chichester, was the first person
to sail single-handed around the world, in 1966/67. Two years
later, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston became the first person to do this
without stopping. Many sailing events are held throughout the UK,
the most famous of which is at Cowes on the Isle of Wight.
Rowing is also popular, both as a leisure activity and as a
competitive sport. There is a popular yearly race on the Thames
between Oxford and Cambridge Universities.

Motor Sports
There is a long history of motor sport in the UK, for both cars
and motor cycles. Motor-car racing in the UK started in 1902.
The UK continues to be a world leader in the development and
manufacture of motor-sport technology. A Formula 1 Grand Prix
event is held in the UK each year and a number of British Grand
Prix drivers have won the Formula 1 World Championship. Recent
British winners include Damon Hill, Lewis Hamilton and Jensen
Button.

Skiing
Skiing is increasingly popular in the UK. Many people go abroad
to ski and there are also dry ski slopes throughout the UK. Skiing
on snow may also be possible during the winter. There are five ski
centres in Scotland, as well as Europe’s longest dry ski slope near
Edinburgh.

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35

Arts and culture
Music
Music is an important part of British culture, with a rich and varied
heritage. It ranges from classical music to modern pop. There are
many different venues and musical events that take place across
the UK.
The Proms is an eight-week summer season of orchestral classical
music that takes place in various venues, including the Royal Albert
Hall in London. It has been organised by the British Broadcasting
Corporation (BBC) since 1927. The Last Night of the Proms is the
most well-known concert and (along with others in the series) is
broadcast on television.
Classical music has been popular in the UK for many centuries.
Henry Purcell (1659–95) was the organist at Westminster Abbey.
He wrote church music, operas and other pieces, and developed a
British style distinct from that elsewhere in Europe. He continues to
be influential on British composers.
The German-born composer George Frederick Handel (1695–
1759) spent many years in the UK and became a British citizen
in 1727. He wrote the Water Music for King George I and Music
for the Royal Fireworks for his son, George II. Both these pieces
continue to be very popular. Handel also wrote an oratorio,
Messiah, which is sung regularly by choirs, often at Easter time.
More recently, important composers include Gustav Holst (1874–
1934), whose work includes The Planets, a suite of pieces themed
around the planets of the solar system. He adapted Jupiter, part
of the Planets suite, as the tune for I vow to thee my country, a
popular hymn in British churches.
Sir Edward Elgar (1857–1934) was born in Worcester, England.
His best-known work is probably the Pomp and Circumstance
Marches. March No 1 (Land of Hope and Glory) is usually played at
the Last Night of the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall.
Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872–1958) wrote music for
orchestras and choirs. He was strongly influenced by traditional
English folk music.

The Germanborn composer
George Frederick
Handel (1695–
1759) spent
many years
in the UK and
became a British
citizen in 1727.

Sir William Walton (1902–83) wrote a wide range of music,
from film scores to opera. He wrote marches for the coronations of
King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II but his best-known works
are probably Façade, which became a ballet, and Balthazar’s Feast,
which is intended to be sung by a large choir.
Benjamin Britten (1913–76) is best known for his operas, which
include Peter Grimes and Billy Budd. He also wrote A Young Person’s
Guide to the Orchestra, which is based on a piece of music by
Purcell and introduces the listener to the various different sections
of an orchestra. He founded the Aldeburgh festival in Suffolk, which
continues to be a popular music event of international importance.
Other types of popular music, including folk music, jazz, pop and
rock music, have flourished in Britain since the 20th century. Britain
has had an impact on popular music around the world, due to the
wide use of the English language, the UK’s cultural links with many
countries, and British capacity for invention and innovation.
Since the 1960s, British pop music has made one of the most
important cultural contributions to life in the UK. Bands including
The Beatles and The Rolling Stones continue to have an influence
on music both here and abroad. British pop music has continued
to innovate – for example, the Punk movement of the late 1970s,
and the trend towards boy and girl bands in the 1990s.
There are many large venues that host music events throughout
the year, such as: Wembley Stadium; The O2 in Greenwich,

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37

south-east London; and the Scottish Exhibition and Conference
Centre (SECC) in Glasgow.
Festival season takes place across the UK every summer, with
major events in various locations. Famous festivals include
Glastonbury, the Isle of Wight Festival and the V Festival. Many
bands and solo artists, both well-known and up-and-coming,
perform at these events.
The National Eisteddfod of Wales is an annual cultural festival
which includes music, dance, art and original performances largely
in Welsh. It includes a number of important competitions for
Welsh poetry.
The Mercury Music Prize is awarded each September for the best
album from the UK and Ireland. The Brit Awards is an annual event
that gives awards in a range of categories, such as best British
group and best British solo artist.

Theatre
There are theatres in most towns and cities throughout the UK,
ranging from the large to the small. They are an important part of
local communities and often show both professional and amateur
productions. London’s West End, also known as ‘Theatreland’, is
particularly well known. The Mousetrap, a murder-mystery play
by Dame Agatha Christie, has been running in the West End since
1952 and has had the longest initial run of any show in history.
There is also a strong tradition of musical theatre in the UK.
In the 19th century, Gilbert and Sullivan wrote comic operas,
often making fun of popular culture and politics. These operas
include HMS Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance and The Mikado.
Gilbert and Sullivan’s work is still often staged by professional
and amateur groups. More recently, Andrew Lloyd Webber has
written the music for shows which have been popular throughout
the world, including, in collaboration with Tim Rice, Jesus Christ
Superstar and Evita, and also Cats and The Phantom of the Opera.
One British tradition is the pantomime. Many theatres produce a
pantomime at Christmas time. They are based on fairy stories and
are light-hearted plays with music and comedy, enjoyed by family
audiences. One of the traditional characters is the Dame, a woman
played by a man. There is often also a pantomime horse or cow
played by two actors in the same costume.

The National
Eisteddfod of
Wales is an
annual cultural
festival which
includes music,
dance, art
and original
performances
largely in Welsh.

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

The Edinburgh Festival takes place in Edinburgh, Scotland, every
summer. It is a series of different arts and cultural festivals, with
the biggest and most well-known being the Edinburgh Festival
Fringe (‘the Fringe’). The Fringe is a showcase of mainly theatre
and comedy performances. It often shows experimental work.
The Laurence Olivier Awards take place annually at different
venues in London. There are a variety of categories, including best
director, best actor and best actress. The awards are named after
the British actor Sir Laurence Olivier, later Lord Olivier, who was
best known for his roles in various Shakespeare plays.

Art
During the Middle Ages, most art had a religious theme,
particularly wall paintings in churches and illustrations in religious
books. Much of this was lost after the Protestant Reformation but
wealthy families began to collect other paintings and sculptures.
Many of the painters working in Britain in the 16th and 17th
centuries were from abroad – for example, Hans Holbein and
Sir Anthony Van Dyck. British artists, particularly those painting
portraits and landscapes, became well known from the 18th
century onwards.
Works by British and international artists are displayed in galleries
across the UK. Some of the most well-known galleries are The
National Gallery, Tate Britain and Tate Modern in London, the
National Museum in Cardiff, and the National Gallery of Scotland
in Edinburgh.
Tate Modern
is based in the
former Bankside
Power Station in
central London

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

The Turner Prize was established in 1984 and celebrates
contemporary art. It was named after Joseph Turner. Four works
are shortlisted every year and shown at Tate Britain before the
winner is announced. The Turner Prize is recognised as one of the
most prestigious visual art awards in Europe. Previous winners
include Damien Hirst and Richard Wright.

Notable British artists
Thomas Gainsborough (1727–88) was a portrait painter who
often painted people in country or garden scenery.
David Allan (1744–96) was a Scottish painter who was best
known for painting portraits. One of his most famous works is
called The Origin of Painting.
Joseph Turner (1775–1851) was an influential landscape
painter in a modern style. He is considered the artist who raised
the profile of landscape painting.
John Constable (1776–1837) was a landscape painter most
famous for his works of Dedham Vale on the Suffolk–Essex
border in the east of England.
The Pre-Raphaelites were an important group of artists in the
second half of the 19th century. They painted detailed pictures
on religious or literary themes in bright colours. The group
included Holman Hunt, Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Sir John
Millais.
Sir John Lavery (1856–1941) was a very successful Northern
Irish portrait painter. His work included painting the Royal
Family.
Henry Moore (1898–1986) was an English sculptor and artist.
He is best known for his large bronze abstract sculptures.
John Petts (1914–91) was a Welsh artist, best known for his
engravings and stained glass.
Lucian Freud (1922–2011) was a German-born British artist.
He is best known for his portraits.
David Hockney (1937–) was an important contributor to
the ‘pop art’ movement of the 1960s and continues to be
influential today.

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Architecture
The architectural heritage of the UK is rich and varied. In the
Middle Ages, great cathedrals and churches were built, many of
which still stand today. Examples are the cathedrals in Durham,
Lincoln, Canterbury and Salisbury. The White Tower in the Tower
of London is an example of a Norman castle keep, built on the
orders of William the Conqueror (see pages 41 and 128).
Gradually, as the countryside became more peaceful and
landowners became richer, the houses of the wealthy became
more elaborate and great country houses such as Hardwick Hall in
Derbyshire were built. British styles of architecture began to evolve.

In the 17th
century, Inigo
Jones took
inspiration
from classical
architecture
to design the
Queen’s House
at Greenwich and
the Banqueting
House in
Whitehall in
London.

In the 17th century, Inigo Jones took inspiration from classical
architecture to design the Queen’s House at Greenwich and the
Banqueting House in Whitehall in London. Later in the century, Sir
Christopher Wren helped develop a British version of the ornate
styles popular in Europe in buildings such as the new St Paul’s
Cathedral.
In the 18th century, simpler designs became popular. The Scottish
architect Robert Adam influenced the development of architecture
in the UK, Europe and America. He designed the inside decoration
as well as the building itself in great houses such as Dumfries
House in Scotland. His ideas influenced architects in cities such as
Bath, where the Royal Crescent was built.
In the 19th century, the medieval ‘gothic’ style became popular
again. As cities expanded, many great public buildings were built
in this style. The Houses of Parliament and St Pancras Station
were built at this time, as were the town halls in cities such as
Manchester and Sheffield.
In the 20th century, Sir Edwin Lutyens had an influence throughout
the British Empire. He designed New Delhi to be the seat of
government in India. After the First World War, he was responsible
for many war memorials throughout the world, including the
Cenotaph in Whitehall. The Cenotaph is the site of the annual
Remembrance Day service attended by the Queen, politicians and
foreign ambassadors (see page 98–9).
Modern British architects including Sir Norman Foster, Lord
(Richard) Rogers and Dame Zaha Hadid continue to work on major
projects throughout the world as well as within the UK.

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41

Alongside the development of architecture, garden design and
landscaping have played an important role in the UK. In the 18th
century, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown designed the grounds around
country houses so that the landscape appeared to be natural, with
grass, trees and lakes. He often said that a place had ‘capabilities’.
Later, Gertrude Jekyll often worked with Edwin Lutyens to design
colourful gardens around the houses he designed. Gardens
continue to be an important part of homes in the UK. The annual
Chelsea Flower Show showcases garden design from Britain and
around the world.

Fashion and design
Britain has produced many great designers, from Thomas
Chippendale (who designed furniture in the 18th century) to
Clarice Cliff (who designed Art Deco ceramics) to Sir Terence
Conran (a 20th-century interior designer). Leading fashion
designers of recent years include Mary Quant, Alexander McQueen
and Vivienne Westwood.

Literature
The UK has a prestigious literary history and tradition. Several
British writers, including the novelist Sir William Golding, the poet
Seamus Heaney, and the playwright Harold Pinter, have won the
Nobel Prize in Literature. Other authors have become well known
in popular fiction. Agatha Christie’s detective stories are read all
over the world and Ian Fleming’s books introduced James Bond. In
2003, The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien was voted the country’s
best-loved novel.
The Man Booker Prize for Fiction is awarded annually for the
best fiction novel written by an author from the Commonwealth,
Ireland or Zimbabwe. It has been awarded since 1968. Past
winners include Ian McEwan, Hilary Mantel and Julian Barnes.

The Man Booker
Prize for Fiction
is awarded
annually for the
best fiction novel
written by an
author from the
Commonwealth,
Ireland or
Zimbabwe.

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Notable authors and writers
Jane Austen (1775–1817) was an English novelist. Her books
include Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility. Her novels
are concerned with marriage and family relationships. Many
have been made into television programmes or films.
Charles Dickens (1812–70) wrote a number of very famous
novels, including Oliver Twist and Great Expectations. You will
hear references in everyday talk to some of the characters in
his books, such as Scrooge (a mean person) or Mr Micawber
(always hopeful).
Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–94) wrote books which are
still read by adults and children today. His most famous books
include Treasure Island, Kidnapped and Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
Thomas Hardy (1840–1928) was an author and poet. His
best-known novels focus on rural society and include Far from
the Madding Crowd and Jude the Obscure.
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859–1930) was a Scottish doctor
and writer. He was best known for his stories about Sherlock
Holmes, who was one of the first fictional detectives.
Evelyn Waugh (1903–66) wrote satirical novels, including
Decline and Fall and Scoop. He is perhaps best known for
Brideshead Revisited.
Sir Kingsley Amis (1922–95) was an English novelist and
poet. He wrote more than 20 novels. The most well-known is
Lucky Jim.
Graham Greene (1904–91) wrote novels often influenced
by his religious beliefs, including The Heart of the Matter, The
Honorary Consul, Brighton Rock and Our Man in Havana.
J K Rowling (1965–) wrote the Harry Potter series of children’s
books, which have enjoyed huge international success. She now
writes fiction for adults as well.

British poets
British poetry is among the richest in the world. The Anglo-Saxon
poem Beowulf tells of its hero’s battles against monsters and is
still translated into modern English. Poems which survive from the

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

43

Middle Ages include Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and a poem called
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, about one of the knights at the
court of King Arthur.
As well as plays, Shakespeare wrote many sonnets (poems which
must be 14 lines long) and some longer poems. As Protestant
ideas spread, a number of poets wrote poems inspired by their
religious views. One of these was John Milton, who wrote Paradise
Lost.
Other poets, including William Wordsworth, were inspired by
nature. Sir Walter Scott wrote poems inspired by Scotland and
the traditional stories and songs from the area on the borders of
Scotland and England. He also wrote novels, many of which were
set in Scotland.
Poetry was very popular in the 19th century, with poets such as
William Blake, John Keats, Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, Alfred Lord
Tennyson, and Robert and Elizabeth Browning. Later, many poets –
for example, Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon – were inspired
to write about their experiences in the First World War. More
recently, popular poets have included Sir Walter de la Mare, John
Masefield, Sir John Betjeman and Ted Hughes.
Some of the best-known poets are buried or commemorated in
Poet’s Corner in Westminster Abbey.
Some famous lines include:
‘Oh to be in England now that April’s there
And whoever wakes in England sees, some morning, unaware,
That the lowest boughs and the brushwood sheaf
Round the elm-tree bole are in tiny leaf
While the Chaffinch sings on the orchard bough
In England – Now!’
(Robert Browning, 1812–89 – Home Thoughts from Abroad)
‘She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies,
All that’s best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes’
(Lord Byron, 1788–1824 – She Walks in Beauty)

Poetry was very
popular in the
19th century,
with poets such
as William Blake,
John Keats, Lord
Byron, Percy
Shelley, Alfred
Lord Tennyson,
and Robert
and Elizabeth
Browning.

44

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

‘I wander’d lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o’er vales and hills
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host of golden daffodils’
(William Wordsworth, 1770–1850 – The Daffodils)
‘Tyger! Tyger! Burning bright
In the forests of the night,
What immortal hand or eye
Could frame thy fearful symmetry?’
(William Blake, 1757–1827 – The Tyger)
‘What passing-bells for these who die as cattle?
Only the monstrous anger of the guns.
Only the stuttering rifles’ rapid rattle
Can patter out their hasty orisons.’
(Wilfred Owen, 1893–1918 – Anthem for Doomed Youth)

Check that you understand:
• Which sports are particularly popular in the UK
• Some of the major sporting events that take place each year
• Some of the major arts and culture events that happen in the UK
• How achievements in arts and culture are formally recognised
• Important figures in British literature

Leisure
People in the UK spend their leisure time in many different ways.

Gardening
A lot of people have gardens at home and will spend their free
time looking after them. Some people rent additional land called
‘an allotment’, where they grow fruit and vegetables. Gardening
and flower shows range from major national exhibitions to
small local events. Many towns have garden centres selling

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

plants and gardening equipment. There are famous gardens to
visit throughout the UK, including Kew Gardens, Sissinghurst
and Hidcote in England, Crathes Castle and Inveraray Castle
in Scotland, Bodnant Garden in Wales, and Mount Stewart in
Northern Ireland.
The countries that make up the UK all have flowers which are
particularly associated with them and which are sometimes worn
on national saints’ days:

England – the rose

Scotland – the thistle Wales – the daffodil

Shopping
There are many different places to go shopping in the UK. Most
towns and cities have a central shopping area, which is called the
town centre. Undercover shopping centres are also common –
these might be in town centres or on the outskirts of a town or
city. Most shops in the UK are open seven days a week, although
trading hours on Sundays and public holidays are generally
reduced. Many towns also have markets on one or more days a
week, where stallholders sell a variety of goods.

Cooking and food
Many people in the UK enjoy cooking. They often invite each
other to their homes for dinner. A wide variety of food is eaten in
the UK because of the country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse
population.

Northern Ireland –
the shamrock

45

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LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

Traditional foods
There are a variety of foods that are traditionally associated with
different parts of the UK:
England: Roast beef, which is served with potatoes,
vegetables, Yorkshire puddings (batter that is baked in the oven)
and other accompaniments. Fish and chips are also popular.
Wales: Welsh cakes – a traditional Welsh snack made from
flour, dried fruits and spices, and served either hot or cold.
Scotland: Haggis – a sheep’s stomach stuffed with offal, suet,
onions and oatmeal.

Eminent directors
included Sir
Alexander Korda
and Sir Alfred
Hitchcock, who
later left for
Hollywood and
remained an
important film
director until his
death in 1980.

Films
British film industry
The UK has had a major influence on modern cinema.
Films were first shown publicly in the UK in 1896 and film
screenings very quickly became popular. From the beginning,
British film makers became famous for clever special effects and
this continues to be an area of British expertise. From the early
days of the cinema, British actors have worked in both the UK and
USA. Sir Charles (Charlie) Chaplin became famous in silent movies
for his tramp character and was one of many British actors to
make a career in Hollywood.
British studios flourished in the 1930s. Eminent directors included
Sir Alexander Korda and Sir Alfred Hitchcock, who later left for
Hollywood and remained an important film director until his
death in 1980. During the Second World War, British movies (for
example, In Which We Serve) played an important part in boosting
morale. Later, British directors including Sir David Lean and Ridley
Scott found great success both in the UK and internationally.
The 1950s and 1960s were a high point for British comedies,
including Passport to Pimlico, The Ladykillers and, later, the Carry
On films.

47

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

Many of the films now produced in the UK are made by foreign
companies, using British expertise. Some of the most commercially
successful films of all time, including the two highest-grossing film
franchises (Harry Potter and James Bond), have been produced in
the UK. Ealing Studios has a claim to being the oldest continuously
working film studio facility in the world. Britain continues to be
particularly strong in special effects and animation. One example is
the work of Nick Park, who has won four Oscars for his animated
films, including three for films featuring Wallace and Gromit.
Actors such as Sir Lawrence Olivier, David Niven, Sir Rex Harrison
and Richard Burton starred in a wide variety of popular films.
British actors continue to be popular and continue to win awards
throughout the world. Recent British actors to have won Oscars
include Colin Firth, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Dame Judi Dench, Kate
Winslet and Tilda Swinton.
The annual British Academy Film Awards, hosted by the British
Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), are the British
equivalent of the Oscars.

Some famous British films
The 39 Steps (1935), directed by Alfred Hitchcock
Brief Encounter (1945), directed by David Lean
The Third Man (1949), directed by Carol Reed
The Belles of St Trinian’s (1954), directed by Frank Launder
Lawrence of Arabia (1962), directed by David Lean
Women in Love (1969), directed by Ken Russell
Don’t Look Now (1973), directed by Nicolas Roeg
Chariots of Fire (1981), directed by Hugh Hudson
The Killing Fields (1984), directed by Roland Joffé
Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), directed by Mike Newell
Touching the Void (2003), directed by Kevin MacDonald.

British comedy
The traditions of comedy and satire, and the ability to laugh at
ourselves, are an important part of the UK character.

Actors such as
Sir Lawrence
Olivier, David
Niven, Sir Rex
Harrison and
Richard Burton
starred in a
wide variety of
popular films.

48

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

Medieval kings and rich nobles had jesters who told jokes and
made fun of people in the Court. Later, Shakespeare included
comic characters in his plays. In the 18th century, political cartoons
attacking prominent politicians – and, sometimes, the monarch or
other members of the Royal Family – became increasingly popular.
In the 19th century, satirical magazines began to be published. The
most famous was Punch, which was published for the first time
in the 1840s. Today, political cartoons continue to be published
in newspapers, and magazines such as Private Eye continue the
tradition of satire.

In the 19th
century, satirical
magazines
began to be
published. The
most famous
was Punch,
which was
published for
the first time
in the 1840s.

Comedians were a popular feature of British music hall, a form of
variety theatre which was very common until television became
the leading form of entertainment in the UK. Some of the people
who had performed in the music halls in the 1940s and 1950s,
such as Morecambe and Wise, became stars of television.
Television comedy developed its own style. Situation comedies,
or sitcoms, which often look at family life and relationships in
the workplace, remain popular. Satire has also continued to be
important, with shows like That Was The Week That Was in
the 1960s and Spitting Image in the 1980s and 1990s. In 1969,
Monty Python’s Flying Circus introduced a new type of progressive
comedy. Stand-up comedy, where a solo comedian talks to a live
audience, has become popular again in recent years.

Television and radio
Many different television (TV) channels are available in the UK.
Some are free to watch and others require a paid subscription.
British television shows a wide variety of programmes. Popular
programmes include regular soap operas such as Coronation Street
and EastEnders. In Scotland, some Scotland-specific programmes
are shown and there is also a channel with programmes in the
Gaelic language. There is a Welsh-language channel in Wales.
There are also programmes specific to Northern Ireland and some
programmes broadcast in Irish Gaelic.
Everyone in the UK with a TV, computer or other medium which
can be used for watching TV must have a television licence. One
licence covers all of the equipment in one home, except when
people rent different rooms in a shared house and each has a
separate tenancy agreement – those people must each buy a
separate licence. People over 75 can apply for a free TV licence and

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

49

blind people can get a 50% discount. You will receive a fine of up
to £1,000 if you watch TV but do not have a TV licence.
The money from TV licences is used to pay for the British
Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). This is a British public service
broadcaster providing television and radio programmes. The BBC
is the largest broadcaster in the world. It is the only wholly statefunded media organisation that is independent of government.
Other UK channels are primarily funded through advertisements
and subscriptions.
There are also many different radio stations in the UK. Some
broadcast nationally and others in certain cities or regions. There
are radio stations that play certain types of music and some
broadcast in regional languages such as Welsh or Gaelic. Like
television, BBC radio stations are funded by TV licences and other
radio stations are funded through advertisements.

Social networking
Social networking websites such as Facebook and Twitter are a
popular way for people to stay in touch with friends, organise
social events, and share photos, videos and opinions. Many people
use social networking on their mobile phones when out and about.

Pubs and night clubs
Public houses (pubs) are an important part of the UK social culture.
Many people enjoy meeting friends in the pub. Most communities
will have a ‘local’ pub that is a natural focal point for social
activities. Pub quizzes are popular. Pool and darts are traditional
pub games. To buy alcohol in a pub or night club you must be 18
or over, but people under that age may be allowed in some pubs
with an adult. When they are 16, people can drink wine or beer
with a meal in a hotel or restaurant (including eating areas in pubs)
as long as they are with someone over 18.
Pubs are usually open during the day from 11.00 am (12 noon on
Sundays). Night clubs with dancing and music usually open and
close later than pubs. The licensee decides the hours that the pub
or night club is open.

Betting and gambling
In the UK, people often enjoy a gamble on sports or other events.
There are also casinos in many places. You have to be 18 to go

The money from
TV licences is
used to pay
for the British
Broadcasting
Corporation
(BBC). This
is a British
public service
broadcaster
providing
television
and radio
programmes.

50

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

into betting shops or gambling clubs. There is a National Lottery
for which draws are made every week. You can enter by buying
a ticket or a scratch card. People under 16 are not allowed to
participate in the National Lottery.

Pets
A lot of people in the UK have pets such as cats or dogs. They
might have them for company or because they enjoy looking after
them. It is against the law to treat a pet cruelly or to neglect it. All
dogs in public places must wear a collar showing the name and
address of the owner. The owner is responsible for keeping the
dog under control and for cleaning up after the animal in a public
place.

The National
Trust was
founded in
1895 by three
volunteers. There
are now more
than 61,000
volunteers
helping to keep
the organisation
running.

Vaccinations and medical treatment for animals are available from
veterinary surgeons (vets). There are charities which may help
people who cannot afford to pay a vet.

Places of interest
The UK has a large network of public footpaths in the countryside.
There are also many opportunities for mountain biking,
mountaineering and hill walking. There are 15 national parks
in England, Wales and Scotland. They are areas of protected
countryside that everyone can visit, and where people live, work
and look after the landscape.
There are many museums in the UK, which range from small
community museums to large national and civic collections.
Famous landmarks exist in towns, cities and the countryside
throughout the UK. Most of them are open to the public to view
(generally for a charge).
Many parts of the countryside and places of interest are kept
open by the National Trust in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
and the National Trust for Scotland. Both are charities that work
to preserve important buildings, coastline and countryside in the
UK. The National Trust was founded in 1895 by three volunteers.
There are now more than 61,000 volunteers helping to keep the
organisation running.

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

UK landmarks

Big Ben
Big Ben is the nickname for the great bell of the clock at the Houses of Parliament in
London. Many people call the clock Big Ben as well. The clock is over 150 years old and
is a popular tourist attraction. The clock tower is named ‘Elizabeth Tower’ in honour of
Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

51

52

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

The Eden Project
The Eden Project is located in Cornwall, in the south west of England. Its biomes, which
are like giant greenhouses, house plants from all over the world. The Eden Project is also
a charity which runs environmental and social projects internationally.

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

Edinburgh Castle
The Castle is a dominant feature of the skyline in Edinburgh, Scotland. It has a long
history, dating back to the early Middle Ages. It is looked after by Historic Scotland, a
Scottish government agency.

53

54

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

The Giantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Causeway
Located on the north-east coast of Northern Ireland, the Giantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Causeway is a land
formation of columns made from volcanic lava. It was formed about 50 million years ago.
There are many legends about the Causeway and how it was formed.

ÂŠ Adam Burton/Getty Images

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
This national park covers 720 square miles (1,865 square kilometres) in the west of
Scotland. Loch Lomond is the largest expanse of fresh water in mainland Britain and
probably the best-known part of the park.

55

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

ÂŠ Sean Gallagher/National Geographic Society/Corbis

56

London Eye
The London Eye is situated on the southern bank of the River Thames and is a Ferris wheel
that is 443 feet (135 metres) tall. It was originally built as part of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebration of
the new millennium and continues to be an important part of New Year celebrations.

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

Snowdonia
Snowdonia is a national park in North Wales. It covers an area of 838 square miles (2,170
square kilometres). Its most well-known landmark is Snowdon, which is the highest
mountain in Wales.

57

58

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

The Tower of London
The Tower of London was first built by William the Conqueror after he became king
in 1066. Tours are given by the Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, who tell
visitors about the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history. People can also see the Crown Jewels there.

chapter 5: A modern, thriving society

The Lake District
The Lake District is Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest national park. It covers 885 square miles (2,292
square kilometres). It is famous for its lakes and mountains and is very popular with
climbers, walkers and sailors. The biggest stretch of water is Windermere. In 2007,
television viewers voted Wastwater as Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite view.

59

60

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

Check that you understand:
• Some of the ways in which people in the UK spend their leisure time
• The development of British cinema
• What the television licence is and how it funds the BBC
• Some of the places of interest to visit in the UK

Think you know everything already?
A practice test based on this chapter starts on page 64.
Try it now and see how you do.
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Chapter 7
Appendices

➜ In this chapter

you will find a glossary of words
and terms used throughout the chapters. You need to
read through all of the listed terms and be sure that
you understand all of them. Each word or phrase is fully
explained in easy-to-understand language.
You will also find some useful summaries of the dates
and events listed in the main chapters. These lists
summarise sections of the key information but they
do not give you every date or event featured in the
chapters. They should be used to aid your studies and
not as an alternative for studying the chapters.

In this chapter there is:
• A glossary of key terms
• Key dates in the calendar
• A timeline of key legislation
• A timeline of key dates in how the UK is governed
• A timeline of key battles and wars

62

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

Glossary
This glossary will help readers understand the meaning of key
terms which appear in the study materials. Where words may be
difficult to understand an example of their use may follow the
definition.
The word that is bracketed after an entry relates to the particular
context in which the word is being defined – for example, arrested
(police). A slash (/) separates different definitions.
AD

Anno Domini – referring to the number of years after the birth
of Jesus Christ – used as a time reference

allegiance

Loyalty to something – for example, to a leader, a faith or a
country

armed forces

The army, navy and air force which defend a country in times of
peace and war

arrested (police)

Taken by the police to a police station and made to stay there to
answer questions about illegal actions or activity

assault

The criminal act of using physical force against someone or of
attacking someone – for example, hitting someone

bank holiday

A day when most people have an official day off work and many
businesses are closed. A bank holiday can also be called a public
holiday

baron

A man who has one of the ranks of the British nobility. The title
was particularly common during the Middle Ages

BC

Before Christ – referring to the number of years before Jesus
Christ was born – used as a time reference

bishop

A senior member of the clergy in the Christian religion, often in
charge of the churches in a particular area

boom

A sharp rise in something – very often in business activity or the
economy

brutality

Behaviour towards another which is cruel and violent and causes
harm

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British history, legislation and battles to help you revise at

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chapter 7: appendices

Dates in the calendar
This page lists all the key dates of the British calendar that are
mentioned in the official study materials.

1 January

New Year’s Day

14 February

Valentine’s Day

1 March

St David’s Day

17 March

St Patrick’s Day

1 April

April Fool’s Day

14 April

Vaisakhi (also Baisakhi)

23 April

St George’s Day

31 October

Halloween

5 November

Bonfire Night

11 November

Remembrance Day

30 November

St Andrew’s Day

24 December

Christmas Eve

25 December

Christmas Day

26 December

Boxing Day

31 December

New Year’s Eve / Hogmanay

63

64

LIFE IN THE UK Test: study guide

Sample Practice Test
1 Which treaty set up the European
Economic Community?

11 Is the statement below
TRUE or FALSE?
Following the defeat of James
II at the Battle of the Boyne
Irish Protestants were unable
to take part in government.

A The Queen appoints the
Speaker

B The Prime Minister appoints
the Speaker

C The House of Lords elects the
Speaker

D MPs elect the Speaker

14 Which of these statements best
sums up the 1950s for Britain?

A The 1950s was a period
of economic recovery and
increasing prosperity for
working people.

B The 1950s was a period of
economic decline that saw
millions lose their job.

15 Which of the following
statements is correct?

A After the Bill of Rights the
monarch could administer
justice without agreement
from Parliament, but not raise
taxes.

B After the Bill of Rights the
monarch needed agreement
from Parliament to raise taxes
and administer justice.

A True
B False

12 In 1485, the Wars of the Roses
ended with which battle?

13 How is the Speaker chosen?

A The Battle of Bolton Field
B The Battle of Bakewell Field
C The Battle of Bognor Field
D The Battle of Bosworth Field

16 Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day is celebrated
in which month?

A June
B July
C August
D September

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66

LIFE IN THE UK Test: Study Guide

17 Which one of the following is
not a responsibility of school
governors and school boards?

21 Which of the following
is a traditional food of
Northern Ireland?

A To monitor school
performance

B To write the school curriculum
C To ensure that the school
remains accountable

D To set the school’s strategic
direction

22 26 December is usually referred
to as which of the following?

18 Where in London is
Boudicca’s statue?

A Westminster Bridge
B Trafalgar Square
C Tower Bridge
D Marble Arch

A Ulster Pasty
B Ulster Pancake
C Ulster Fishcake
D Ulster Fry

A Christmas Day
B New Years Eve
C St George’s Day
D Boxing Day

23 Which of the following
statements is correct?

19 You should notify your local police
station if anyone is trying to do
which TWO of the following?

A The Anglo-Saxon king at
Sutton Hoo was buried with
no possessions.

A Persuade you to join a terrorist
group

B The Anglo-Saxon king at
Sutton Hoo was buried inside
a ship.

B Persuade you to change your
beliefs

C Disagree with your beliefs
D Persuade you to join an
extremist group

20 Who was king of England
at the time of the Norman
invasion in 1066?

24 Dedham Vale on the SuffolkEssex border is associated most
with which landscape painter?

A Joseph Turner
B John Constable
C Richard Wilson
D Joshua Reynolds

A Herbert
B Hubert
C Harold
D Henry

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67

chapter 8: practice tests

Answers:
Practice Test 5
1

D

The Treaty of Rome

p150

2

C

Mistletoe

p98

3

D

Germany

p105

4

A

1450s

p43

5

D

2009

p85–6

6

B

James VI

p51

7

D

An Iron Age hill fort

p38–9

8

B

Catholic

p98

9

C

York

p45–7

10

D

Electoral register

p146–7

11

B

False

p57–8

12

D

The Battle of Bosworth Field

p47

13

D

MPs elect the Speaker

p137–8

14

A

The 1950s was a period of economic recovery and increasing
prosperity for working people.

p78–9

15

B

After the Bill of Rights the monarch needed agreement from
Parliament to raise taxes and administer justice.

p59

16

A

June

p98

17

B

To write the school curriculum

p168–9

18

A

Westminster Bridge

p39

19

A

Persuade you to join a terrorist group

p155

D

Persuade you to join an extremist group

20

C

Harold

p41–2

21

D

Fry

p116

22

D

Boxing Day

p96

23

B

The Anglo-Saxon king at Sutton Hoo was buried inside a ship.

p39–41

24

B

John Constable

p109

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Life in the UK Test
Practice Questions
20 completely new
practice tests ON
Available from
WHSmiths,
Waterstones
and all good
book stores.

ISBN 9780955215995

ÂŁ6.9LY
9

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YOU MAY THINK YOU
KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT

BEING
BRITISH,

BUT WOULD THE GOVERNMENT AGREE?

PASS THE BRITISH
CITIZENSHIP TEST?

COULD YOU

This informative and entertaining book
investigates the controversial exam that anyone
wishing to become a British citizen must pass.
Some questions are easy, others are bizarre and
some are downright impossible.

What type of food is traditionally
eaten on Christmas Day?
How might you stop young people
playing tricks on you at Hallowe’en?
What is the role of the Council of
the European Union?
This is the ultimate quiz book for the
nation with hundreds of practice
questions that every British citizen
should be able to answer.